8 Terms Only Die-Hard Formula E Fans Know

TECH TALK

Posted on: 04 October, 2016

Season 3 of Formula E is just around the corner and passioneers all over the world are waiting with bated breath. If your friends are raving about it 24/7 and you have no idea what they’re talking about – we’re here to help. By the end of this read, you should be able to ‘spark’ a few chats. Here’s some lingo to get you rolling:

1. ePrix

Similar to Formula 1's Grand Prix, an 'ePrix' is the name given to a Formula E race. From start to finish, each race lasts approximately 45 minutes.

2. eVillage

Although it may sound like an internet-based community dwelling, an eVillage is actually a festival hub at every race. Fans get to see eBike demos, participate in race simulations and even get driver autographs.

3. FanBoost

A feature that’s unique to Formula E – fans can vote for their favourite drivers online and through social media. Three winners who receive the most votes, each get a 5-second ‘power boost’ of 30kW during the race.

4. Kilowatt-hours

The capacity of a petrol engine is measured in litres; Formula E cars are measured in kilowatt-hours, as they use batteries. An electric racecar uses up approximately 1,250 watt-hours per kilometre, on the race track.

5. Max Power Mode vs Race Mode

All Formula E cars have a maximum power mode of 200kW, which they can use during the practice and qualifying sessions. On race mode, however, the cars are limited to a maximum power output of 170kW.

6. Regen

A technology unique to Formula E – energy ‘regenerates’ in the battery every time the driver either hits the brakes or pulls the regen paddle on the steering wheel.

7. Sparkhead

Beware of the ‘sparkheads’ – they know everything there is to know about electric vehicles and love to flaunt it. These next-gen fans and techno-freaks live, breathe and sleep EVs.

8. Super Pole Shoot-out

The most thrilling fight for speed in Formula E. The five fastest drivers from qualifying make it through to this shoot-out to set their best lap times. The winner with the fastest lap gets pole position.

So now you know a little bit more about this power-awesome sport. We think that’s good enough to make you a ‘sparkhead,’ like us.